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Supporting our staff and families after the tragedy at West Seattle Stadium

Seattle Parks and Recreation (SPR) is deeply saddened by the events that took place on May 8 outside of West Seattle stadium during an SPR youth track meet. Our thoughts are with the families, children, and staff who were present at the stadium.

We are grateful to the police officiers, as well as staff and parents who quickly responded to keep children and families safe and sheltered. Johnnie Williams, Luwam Ogube and Brieah Marino as well as other staff, acted heroically and we cannot thank them enough for their quick judgement and bravery.

We have scheduled a Community Healing Circle with Reverend Harriett Walden on Saturday, May 12 from 10am-1pm at Rainier Community Center (Gym #2). We invite all those seeking support to attend.

We are canceling the Lowell Barry track meet that was scheduled for Saturday, May 12.

City Championship track meets will take place on Monday and Tuesday, May 14 & May 15 at Chief Sealth HS Stadium. Monday’s meet is for ages 7-10, and begins at 5:30pm. Tuesday’s meet is for ages 11-18, and begins at 5:30pm.

We have reached out to Seattle Police Department to request their presence at both championship meets.

Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, the families and children who were participating, and the SPR staff and volunteers who run the track and field program.  Again, we are incredibly grateful to our staff who quickly reacted to keep our kids and families safe during this event, and we will be considering how to offer additional safety trainings for all youth athletic coaches, volunteers, and staff.